Becoming a Security Guard
Basically, a Security Guard is someone employed by a private party or a government agency to provide protection and security to a certain person or entity. They are responsible for protecting assets and enforcing preventative measures.
Qualifications
Obtaining security guard qualifications is essential for anyone who wants to become a security guard. This includes completing a pre-assignment training course and getting a NYS Security Guard License.
The initial training is designed to provide an overview of the duties of a security guard. Candidates also learn about emergency protocols and procedures. The curriculum varies depending on the employer’s needs. Most employers will offer supplemental on-the-job training.
A security guard must be at least 18 years old and a United States citizen. He or she must be free from felony convictions and crimes involving moral turpitude. The person must also be free from addiction to drugs or alcohol.
After completing the pre-assignment training, the individual must then complete an eight-hour on-the-job training course within the first 90 days on the job. He or she must also have a police check or first aid certificate. The NYS Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) will issue a certification showing that the applicant meets the requirements for a security guard license.
For more information on the requirements to obtain a NYS Security Guard License, visit the DCJS website. The agency will also send you an application form for certification.
Depending on the requirements of the state, individuals may also have to complete a basic training program. The curriculum for this training program can range from 16 hours to 50 hours. The American Society for Industrial Security recommends that trainees complete at least 48 hours of training during the first 100 days of employment.
Upon completing the initial training, the security guard must complete a four-month probationary period. During this time, the person must undergo a thorough interview to evaluate their social distancing, basic general knowledge and ability to perform their duties. During this probationary period, the person must also pass the primary selection test.
The armed security guards undergo more extensive training than the unarmed guards. They must complete 47 hours of firearms training and a pistol permit. They must also learn firearm safety and laws regarding the use of force.
The demands for security guards in New York City are high. The demand extends to suburban areas such as Long Island and Long Island City.
Duties of a security guard
During times of emergency, the duties of a security guard can prove to be invaluable. They can ensure that lives are saved, help prevent accidents, and protect property. They can also serve as a liaison between the management and public safety officials. They should be well-trained and equipped with the right equipment to perform their duties in a safe manner.
They must also act in accordance with the law. It’s important to keep in mind that all security guards are not authorized to carry firearms. If you are a security guard, you should never use excessive force in the line of duty.
One of the most important duties of a security guard is to ensure the proper functioning of the surveillance equipment. This means that they must visually inspect the fire extinguishers and other such equipment. It is also important that they record all incidents, in order to have a better idea of how to deal with them in the future.
When a major incident occurs, the duties of a security guard are to monitor the area, notify authorities, and direct calls. They should also keep a close eye on the crime scene and investigate anything that might be an indicator of a criminal activity.
The duties of a security guard should include protecting employees and visitors. They should also provide a visible presence to deter criminals from committing any crimes.
They should also be able to administer basic first aid. This should be done by the most effective means possible. A professional security guard can identify suspicious activity and can help prevent it from occurring.
It is also important for security officers to be detail oriented and to be able to handle medical emergencies. Their responses will vary depending on the situation. They should also be able to determine the cause of the problem and what needs to be done to rectify it.
The other most important duty of a security guard is to ensure that all assets are secured. They should also secure parked vehicles. This can help prevent burglary.
Other duties of a security guard include greeting visitors, directing them to the nearest police station, and protecting the company’s assets. These duties are aimed at ensuring that the company stays in business and that its guests and employees are protected.
Skills required
Whether you are considering a career as a security guard or just want to keep your home safe, there are certain skills that you will need. These include being alert and observant, knowing how to communicate effectively, and being physically fit.
As a security guard, you will have to deal with a variety of different people. These may include the owners of the facility, other security guards, customers, and contractors. The ability to interact with all of these different people is essential.
The right communication skills can help you get your point across to your co-workers. These skills include written and verbal communications. A good written communication skill will allow you to document incidents and provide your co-workers with key information.
A strong verbal communication skill will enable you to effectively announce visitors, discuss building security with clients, and defuse tense situations. However, it is also important to know when to use these skills.
Being a security guard also requires you to be a team player. This means you must be willing to work as part of a team, even if it means switching positions with another security guard from time to time to maintain focus.
Having a solid understanding of the different types of surveillance equipment can also prove to be a strength. You may need to know how to use an x-ray scanner to identify prohibited items.
A good security guard will have a keen eye for detail. The ability to see the small details can help you determine whether a situation is safe or not.
The ability to think outside the box is also an important skill. Being a security guard will require you to think of ways to solve a problem, and being able to implement these ideas can help you keep your clients and your premises safe.
You may also be required to use word processing software to complete reports and other documents. A good computer skill is a must for any security guard. The ability to use a computer will also help you keep track of your daily tasks.
The best way to highlight your skills is to include them in your resume. Be sure to write a bulleted list of your skills. This will make it easy for your hiring manager to read.
Working conditions
Unlike law enforcement personnel, security guards work for private contractors. While these guards are not subject to the same legal regulations, their working conditions are just as important as those of law enforcement workers.
A survey of security guards found that many were dissatisfied with their pay and working conditions. They had complained that they had not received pay raises in five years. They also reported that they had a fear of getting their pay cut. Moreover, they reported that their salary was too low to qualify for government housing assistance programs.
The United States employs nearly ten times as many security guards as it does law enforcement. Most of these employees work long hours. This can lead to high stress and fatigue. The International Labor Organization (ILO) recommends that the maximum working hours of security guards be reduced to 48 hours a week.
Working conditions for security guards vary widely, depending on the place of employment. Some guards work in the same location year-round while others get assignments at different locations. They might work in hotels, banks, museums, department stores, and restaurants.
In the United States, security guards are entitled to meal breaks. These breaks can be anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. Most security guards eat lunch while on duty.
Working hours for security guards can be improved by introducing more breaks. They may also be eligible for additional paid vacation time.
Some security firms will allow you to rotate shifts to get more rest. However, these companies may have no interest in hiring part-time security guards.
The UK security industry authority sets the limit on the hours that a security guard can work per week. It also sets the minimum and maximum rest periods for workers.
In the Netherlands, security firms must submit an annual report to the minister of justice. In addition, guards must have a basic diploma within twelve months of starting a job.
The ILO suggests that security guards receive paid annual leaves and a weekly rest period. They are entitled to overtime pay when working more than forty hours in a week.
